PM confirms downing of sixth Indian jet, hails PAF’s combat excellence

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lauded the Pakistan Air Force’s operational performance, confirming the downing of a sixth Indian aircraft—a Mirage 2000—near Pampore, east of Srinagar, on the night of May 6–7. He said the incident stood as “a testament to the PAF’s combat excellence and the unflinching resolve of our Armed Forces to protect the motherland at all costs.”

The premier said this during a visit to the Pakistan Air Force’s operational base in Kamra on Thursday, where he praised the Air Force’s “combat excellence” and reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to defend its sovereignty against any aggression, the military’s media wing said in a statement.

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According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the prime minister met with frontline personnel, including pilots, engineers, and technicians, expressing “profound appreciation” for their precision, professionalism, and commitment to national defence.

“In the wake of unprovoked aggression, Pakistan’s Armed Forces exhibited exemplary restraint, strategic foresight, and operational precision,” he said in his address.

“Their swift and calibrated response not only neutralised the threat but also delivered a decisive blow to hostile military infrastructure—unequivocally reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering resolve to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity,” the statement added.

It further noted that PM Shehbaz lauded the capabilities of the Army Chief, stating, “The entire nation takes immense pride in the valour and vigilance of its Armed Forces. Under the capable stewardship of the Chief of Army Staff, our defenders have once again underscored that Pakistan’s security is inviolable, and any act of belligerence will be met with a forceful, resolute, and unforgiving response.”

The statement added that the PM also lauded the leadership of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, commending his role in modernising the PAF and integrating advanced technologies that have significantly enhanced its operational effectiveness.

“To our fearless pilots and dedicated air personnel—your courage and precision embody the indomitable spirit of Pakistan’s Armed Forces,” PM remarked. “You have stood resolute, upholding the sanctity of our skies and defending the sovereignty of our country with unwavering resolve,” he said.

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In closing, the PM reiterated the government’s and nation’s commitment to national security, “Pakistan’s Armed Forces remain fully prepared and resolutely committed to defending every inch of our territory. Any aggression will be countered with a timely, proportionate, and decisive response. We stand united, vigilant, and unshakable in the defence of our homeland.”

Accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, and Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf, the PM received a detailed briefing on the PAF’s operational preparedness.